Victorians from low-income households can now access a one-off $250 payment to help with their energy bills, thanks to the Victorian Government’s new Power Saving Bonus.
Member for Narre Warren South Gary Maas today announced the new $250 Power Saving Bonus will be available to Victorian eligible concession cardholders between 1 February 2021 and 31 January 2022, providing immediate energy bill relief to those who need it most.
The bonus is available to all pensioner concession cardholders and some health care cardholders who visit the Victorian Energy Compare website.
This website is designed to help consumers take charge of their energy costs by finding the best energy deal available. Seven out of ten people save money by using the website, with typical annual household savings of $330 on energy bills in the first year alone.
Electricity bills are the top cost of living issue for consumers and about 20 per cent of Victorian households requested financial assistance with their energy bills last year due to the impacts of coronavirus (COVID-19).
The bonus is available to anyone with a gas or electricity account who holds a pensioner concession card or receives JobSeeker, Austudy, Abstudy or Youth Allowance.
To ensure the bonus is accessible to those who need it most, including those from marginalised communities and families from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the Victorian Government has enlisted the support of the Brotherhood of St. Laurence and the Consumer Policy Research Centre.
The Power Saving Bonus is part of an unprecedented $797 million household energy affordability package that was announced in the recent State Budget.
Eligible cardholders can access the Power Saving Bonus at compare.energy.vic.gov.au or, if assistance is required, by calling 1800 000 832.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“For those on low-incomes, energy bills are often the biggest drain on household budgets, so we are providing immediate support with the Power Saving Bonus. It is part of our commitment to make energy fairer for Victorians.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Narre Warren South Gary Maas
“Bill relief is important for those who are struggling to make ends meet and the Power Saving Bonus aims to help those who need it most.”
“I encourage all households to visit the Victorian Energy Compare website to check out the Power Saving Bonus and to potentially find a better deal on their gas and electricity.”
2nd February 2021